Manolo for the HomeNew to Me: Designer vs. Decorator | Manolo for the Home






New to Me: Designer vs. Decorator

By Christa Terry

Honestly, it has never occurred to me to think much about the differences between a decorator and a designer, or even to consider that these might be two wholly separate professions. But apparently in some circles, using the terms interchangeably could earn one a fat lip or at least no small amount of derision. The only problem? If Brian Patrick Flynn’s* Design Happens post from late last year is any indication, there’s not much in the way of consensus when it comes to how to use the two labels appropriately. Some people in the field strongly prefer one designation while others don’t mind them being used interchangeably.

According to interior designer Michael Habachy, “Decorating is a talent — either you have it or you don’t. Design is a skill that can be learned.” Whereas interior designer Betsy Burnham feels the line falls thusly: “A decorator is someone who furnishes a house and a designer is someone who provides interior architectural details, as well as furnishings.” And decorator Nick Olsen had this to say: “I think some designers scoff at the term ‘decorator‘ because it does have a more frivolous connotation — simply picking out paint colors and fabric swatches — but it’s one I’m perfectly comfortable with.”

There are plenty of guides out there that break down the differences between interior designers and interior decorators – here’s one example – but it seems like when you go straight to the source, the people who are actually getting in there are remaking people’s interiors don’t really mind what people call them, as long as those people are willing to pay them good money for their creativity, color savvy, and understanding of what makes a great space really great. In the technical sense, an interior decorator is usually someone with great taste who works to outfit an existing space, while an interior designer is someone with some degree of architectural abilities who will transform the space itself.

I definitely recommend that you take the time to read each of the 10 short interviews because it’s a really cool glimpse into the world of interior… whatever. Just choose the word you like best for now, I suppose. Or not – this was a really interesting read, too, and did a lot to clarify just what a licensed interior designer is.

*Speaking of Mr. Flynn, I am in love with this project!









2 Responses to “New to Me: Designer vs. Decorator”




  1. Jennie Says:

    I am a Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer (CMKBD) through the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA). The terms “designer” and “decorator” have been hotly debated and, in the last 20 or so years, has been the subject of some very heavily contested legal attempts at title and/or practice acts in various states. This means that some design organizations (NOT the NKBA!!!) are asking states to require that their organization’s certification be the only one recognized to use the term “designer” AND in some cases be the only ones allowed to actually practice interior design of any type! This has wasted a lot of time, energy, and money instead of making beauty, functionality, and safety for homes and businesses. I believe in specialization. Just as doctors specialize in surgery or dermatology, designers should specialize in commercial or residential, living spaces (family rooms or bedrooms) or function spaces (kitchens and baths). But requiring legislation for this is counterproductive. When choosing a design professional, look at their body of work, their references, and your comfort level with them. And remember, you are paying for skill and intellect, not a product when hiring a designer…




  2. Christa Terry Says:

    I LOVE your take on this, Jennie. It feels like design organizations have more of a stake in this than anyone else – some professionals prefer to be called one thing or another, but there’s no clear line, at least among those interviewed in the article. Frankly, if I were to hire someone, I’d care a lot more about what they can do for me and whether I like their previous work than what they call themselves or what’s written on their business card!












Disclaimer: Manolo the Shoeblogger is not Manolo Blahnik
Copyright © 2004-2009; Manolo the Shoeblogger, All Rights Reserved



  • Recent Comments:

    • The Mid-Century Moment (1)
      • Joanna: The retro modern wing back with geometric motif would be stunning in a gentleman’s study or bedroom....

    • There’s Nothing Harder Than Saying Goodbye (7)
      • Christa Terry: Thanks, all! @joods They will remain in the archives, so enjoy!

      • molly: Thought something was going on! Thanks for the amazing blog! Good luck, and have a great life!

      • joods: Oops…forgot something. Will your old posts and your links (on the right side of the page) remain? If...

    • Chandeliers: How Low CAN You Go? (6)
      • Jennifer Man: My personal opinion is that if you want a chandelier you should get one. When having a low ceiling, of...

      • DENY Designs: I hate to say it but you might be out of luck. I don’t think you can go very low with...

      • marvel: I think it depends. No, seriously, I like the look of the chandelier over the table, where it is clearly out...

  • Shop for the Home!




    InhabitLiving.com Free Shipping Orders Over $200

    Shop Domestications

    VivaTerra - Eco Living With Style

    GreenandMore.com Hundreds of Eco-Friendly Products

    Links

  • Beautiful Reads

  • Designers We Love

  • Houses and Homes

  • Just Because

  • Manolo's Blogs

  • Outdoorsy Stuff

  • Prettify Your Place






  • Meta


    Subscribe to Manolo for the Home


    RSS 2.0
    Comments RSS 2.0







    Manolo for the Home is powered by WordPress

    Disclaimer: Manolo the Shoeblogger is not Mr. Manolo Blahnik. This website is not affiliated in any way with Mr. Manolo Blahnik, any products bearing the federally registered trademarks MANOlO®, BlAHNIK® or MANOlO BlAHNIK®, or any licensee of said federally registered trademarks. The views expressed on this website are solely those of the author.








    Subscribe!


    Editor

    Christa Terry
    (a.k.a. Never teh Bride)

    Publisher

    Manolo the Shoeblogger




    Categories